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Misconceptions about Moisturizers

Hydrate! Moisturize! Slather on the lotion! The call for action to protect skin against the damaging and drying effects of winter has been made loud and clear. Dermatologists and skin care professionals urge individuals to “weatherize” skin by incorporating thick, heavy moisturizers into their normal skin care routine.

However, is there a point where skin loses ability to moisturize itself? Additionally, is it possible for skin to be addicted to moisturizers? The physicians of Knoxville Dermatology Group understand the importance of addressing skin care questions such as these.  

Is Your Skin Addicted?!
Chapped and dry lips never seem to go away, even when using lip balm. That is because constantly applying lip balm can reduce the lips ability to moisturize itself. This may be true, but people do not get addicted to skin lotion because the skin on the rest of the body is different than the skin on the lips.  Lip skin is very thin and doesn’t share the same thick, protective stratum cornea layer that the rest of the body has, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Furthermore, lips dry out faster because they lack the sweat and oil glands that provide moisture.

Keep in mind, lip balms are classified as emollients, which work to seal the skin; and body moisturizers are humectants which draw moisture in.

Tip: Make sure to remove dead skin cells with exfoliation before applying balm.  As this prevents flaking and drying, it also triggers new cell growth.

Another misconception is that lotions disrupt the skin’s water barrier with repeated use, thus making skin addicted to moisturizers.

Only irritants (negatively charged agents) can disrupt this protective barrier through the removal of fat and protein structures found in skin.  Moreover, these structures are largely responsible for keeping skin hydrated and smooth.

Tip: Pay attention to skin care products, especially soaps and cleansers that work as irritants as they offset the skin’s natural moisturizers.

Similar to this misconception is the belief that when skin cells get “lazy” and slow down, skin relies on moisturizers for hydration.

Dermatologists recommend using moisturizers because they are designed to help reconstitute some elements of healthy skin lost as a result of drying factors. In other words, a moisturizer with quality ingredients simply replenishes the skin and protects against moisture loss.

As mentioned earlier, products classified as emollients (waxy sealants) are the biggest threat to cell growth. Exfoliation is key to stimulating cell growth because it promotes proper blood circulation and sloughs away dead skin cells.

If you would like further information regarding skin care and/or skin conditions, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified physicians. Call 865.690.9467 today!

Not To Be Combined With…

When addressing the needs of problematic skin, active ingredients such as retinol, benzoyl peroxide and alpha-hydroxy acid are often found in recommended skin care products. Their effectiveness varies; however dermatologists agree that mixing these strong ingredients can be counter- productive.

Retinol and benzoyl peroxide are exfoliating agents that clear existing acne and prevent new blemishes from forming due to its drying effects.  When mixed together, or even layered, the skin can experience excessive peeling, flaking, redness, and blistering, scarring and unwanted pigmentation.

Alpha-hydroxy acid- a chemical found in natural products acts as an exfoliating agent and can be used in combination with retinol. When using these together, the AHA should be applied in the morning whereas retinol is to be applied at night.

These aforementioned ingredients may cause increased sun sensitivity. Therefore, it is critical to wear a good, daily sunscreen to counteract UV sensitivity.

If you use retinol, benzoyl peroxide and/or alpha-hydroxy acid, be mindful of the amount you use. These ingredients are potent and often cause irritation. When using products with these ingredients, dermatologists suggest using small amounts at first in order to build tolerance.

For more information about these ingredients and/or other products that address problematic skin, consult your dermatologist at Knoxville Dermatology Group.

Benzoyl Peroxide: Key Ingredient,Key for You?

Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most commonly prescribed anti-acne ingredients. However, regular use of benzoyl peroxide may be the source of possible skin problems. Knoxville Dermatology Group encourages you to learn more about active ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, found in many skin care products.

What is Benzoyl Peroxide?
Benzoyl Peroxide is medication used to treat mild to moderate acne. When applied to the skin, benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria and by causing the skin to dry and peel.  There are many benzoyl peroxide products available; many can be purchased without a prescription. However, a dermatologist should recommend the appropriate products upon assessment of skin.

The Pros
Clears Acne Fast
Benzoyl peroxide clears blemishes fast by killing acne-causing bacteria.  Products that contain lower concentrations are as effective as those with higher concentrations.  Thus, skin does not have to endure dryness to achieve desired results.

 

Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent
According to a study published in Cosmetic Dermatology, benzoyl peroxide reduces oxygen in the skin and bacteria in the pore. Moreover, the ingredient works to reduce inflammation within the blemish.

The Cons
Causes Dehydration and Premature Aging
Benzoyl peroxide causes irritation, namely dryness, which in turn ages skin. Vigilant use of moisturizers can help this drawback.

 

 

Can Lead to Hyperpigmentation
Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is characteristic of acne and benzoyl peroxide adds to its severity. Hyperpigmentation is especially severe for people of medium to dark skin tones.

 

Induces Sun Damage
Because benzoyl peroxide cleans the pore, it thins the skin increasing susceptibility to sun damage.

 

Common Side Effects
Dryness and peeling; skin that feels tight. Redness may occur.

How to Use It
Dermatologists agree the key with benzoyl peroxide is moderation. It was invented as a product for short-term use, thus users should take heed and scale back use.  If side effects are still an issue, there are many other agents, like salicylic acid and retinol that work just as well.

Facing Adult Onset Acne

For many adults, acne has become a growing pain that continues to grow with them. In fact, “…there appears to be an increase in post-adolescent acne, and that the disease is lasting longer and is requiring treatment well into the mid forties,” according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Regardless of what age you are coping with acne, the physicians of Knoxville Dermatology Group can help.

Adult acne affects 25% of adult men and half of all adult women at some time in their adult lives. These statistics may not be surprising, especially since dermatologists are seeing more patients in their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond with this condition. Dermatologists call acne that does not clear by one’s mid-20s, persistent acne.  Most common in women, this acne tends to form on the lower face around the mouth and jaw line. Late-onset acne can occur when people who have not had acne for years. People can develop deep-seated, inflamed pimples and nodules, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Causes of Adult Acne
Acne develops when excess sebum (oil that our bodies produce naturally), skin cells, and bacteria build up. The triggers of adult acne are wide, but often relate to hormones, cosmetics, and stress.  Here are several causes:

  • Family history– Researchers have found that half of adults with acne share the condition with a first-degree relative. Some people have a genetic predisposition to acne.
  • Stress– The body responds to stress by producing more androgens, hormones that can cause flare-ups.
  • Hormones– Acne flares up any time hormones fluctuate. In particular, hormones related to premenstrual flares can cause skin problems for women. Moreover, acne becomes problematic during menopause.
  • Taking/ Discontinuing certain medications– Acne can occur as a side effect of medications.  These include anticonvulsants, corticosteroids, and sobriety drugs.  If you experience a flare-up as a result of a medication, discuss alternative medications with your doctor. Furthermore, birth control pills that contain estrogen and progestin often help control acne.
  • Hair and Skin Products– If a product used for hair and/or skin is heavy or greasy, then it can cause acne cosmetica. Dermatologists recommend products labeled “non-comedogenic” or “non-acnegenic.”

Treatment of Adult Acne
There is a never ending list of acne-fighting products on the market, and it can be overwhelming. But the best solution for adult acne cannot be bought; it is the advice from your dermatologist. Upon visiting the dermatologist, he or she can assess your skin and design a customized routine, including recommended skin products to combat your condition.

Knoxville Dermatology Group understands that not all acne is the same; but the difficulty of treating them is common. Schedule a consultation today with one of our board certified physicians to learn more about your condition and continue your adulthood with healthy, clear skin!

Welcome to SkinSchool–Your Guide to Healthy Skin

SkinSchool is your go-to source for all things related to skin and dermatology.

Did you know skin is your body’s largest organ? Adults carry some 8 pounds and 22 square feet of it! Healthy skin is very important to your overall well-being. Skin does so much more than simply make us look presentable-it serves as a waterproof shield and insulation against extreme temperatures, damaging sunlight and harmful chemicals. It also exudes antibacterial substances that prevent infection and manufactures vitamin D for converting calcium into healthy bones. Skin is also a huge sensor packed with nerves that keep the brain in touch with the outside world. At the same time, skin allows us free movement, proving itself an amazingly versatile organ.

Healthy skin is very important to your overall well-being, and we’re here to help you take care of it.